superluna, in the night here is the show on the skies of Italy. A full moon which last night, between Monday 19th and Tuesday 20th August, was at its closest approach to the Earth. Appearing like this bigger, up to 10%, e brighter (up to 30%), compared to its usual phases of the year. Last night was the first of four consecutive Supermoons of 2024.
Supermoon, what is it
The term is not part of astronomical technical jargon. Coined in 1979, “Supermoon” refers to a new or full moon that occurs when the Earth's satellite is within 90% of its closest approach to the planet, i.e.perigee".
How the Supermoon appears over the skies of Italy
As also seen in the many photos online and posted on social media, tonight's Supermoon appeared not only larger and brighter, but also of a different color reddish. This phenomenon is caused by the thicker layer of atmosphere that the moonlight has to pass through compared to when it is high in the sky. The satellite reached its fullness phase shortly after sunset, appearing very low on the horizon. And many have been able to witness the phenomenon a naked eye, also taking advantage of a less torrid climate. But someone, from the highest points of his city, has equipped himself with binoculars so as not to miss even the smallest detail.
Supermoon, also called “Sturgeon Moon”
The definition of Sturgeon Moon owes its origins to an American farmers' almanac, in which names of gods were used native Indians for full moons. Specifically, it was the Algonquian tribe that referred to the August full moon as the Sturgeon Moon, as it appears that this type of fish was more easily caught at this time of year in the Great Lakes region, populated by this native tribe .
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